[mrguyorama]

>instant total brake failure on a downhill grade into a contested intersection with 4 tons of boat on the hitch…

You're free to drive into a tree of your own accord, but please don't let your personal choices kill my girlfriend or mother. If you drive an old vehicle, especially if it's a large truck used for towing, ensure before any drive that the brakes will not fail, and that you have the requisite backups required by local law.

[jws]

I totally agree! The truck was recently safety inspected for the state, and brake systems are supposed to fail front and back independently. Front and the rear failed in different ways, though the front failure was precipitated by the extra pressure when the rear failed. The mechanical emergency brake was fine.